By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, May 31: Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar has called on the Dayak community to uphold unity, preserve cultural heritage and strengthen competitiveness in education and the economy as Sarawak celebrates Gawai Dayak 2026.
In his Gawai Dayak message, the TYT and his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, extended warm greetings to all Dayak communities in Sarawak and those living elsewhere, describing Gawai as a symbol of gratitude, identity and cultural pride.
He said the annual celebration on June 1 reflects not only thanksgiving for the harvest, but also the strengthening of identity, traditions and cultural heritage that define the Dayak community.
“The true strength of Sarawak lies in its diversity, living harmoniously under the sovereign nation of Malaysia,” he said, adding that cultural heritage must be safeguarded so that younger generations remain connected to their roots.
Wan Junaidi also highlighted Gawai as a bridge for unity among Sarawakians of all backgrounds, in line with the “Segulai Sejalai” spirit, noting that open house traditions such as ngabang continue to strengthen bonds of friendship and togetherness.
On development, he acknowledged the significant contributions of the Dayak community across key sectors including agriculture, plantations, public service, private industry and the professional workforce, which have helped drive Sarawak’s progress on both national and international stages.
As Sarawak moves towards its goal of becoming a high-income developed state by 2030, he stressed the importance of strengthening skills in technology, education, entrepreneurship and leadership, while adapting to the demands of the digital and green economies.
At the same time, he reminded that cultural values and traditions must not be sidelined in the pursuit of modernisation, as they form the unique identity of the Dayak community.
The TYT also underscored the government’s commitment to inclusive development, particularly in education, urging Bumiputera communities to prioritise Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) as well as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
He cautioned that a lack of focus on high-demand fields could limit future job opportunities in high-value industries, urging parents and community leaders to play a proactive role in guiding students towards relevant education pathways.
Wan Junaidi said Gawai is also a time for gratitude and renewal of resolve, emphasising that Sarawak’s stability and progress depend on unity among its people.
He expressed confidence that the Dayak and Bumiputera communities will continue to play a key role in driving both traditional and modern sectors, contributing to Sarawak’s global competitiveness.
“Let us continue to uphold harmony, strengthen integrity and build a more prosperous future for our beloved Sarawak,” he said. — DayakDaily
